A Senior Exam To Assess The Learning Of Core Competencies In A Chemical Engineering Curriculum

The Chemical Engineering Department faculty at Brigham Young University have identified a set of core competencies that we feel provide the foundation for problem solving in chemical engineering. To assist in our assessment of student learning of these core competencies we have developed a Core Competency Exam to be administered during the senior year. One of the observed benefits of the exam is its role in focusing the attention of both students and faculty members on the core elements of our program. The exam also provides a quality check for graduating students, and feedback for program improvement. Our experience to date indicates that the Core Competency Exam, along with other elements of our assessment plan, will have a significant positive impact on the education of our students.